About Stephen J.
Stephen J. Muhonen built a foundation in criminal justice and sociology before turning to the law. He earned an A.A. in Criminal Justice from Idaho State University in 1992, followed by a B.A. in Sociology from the same school in 1999. He completed his J.D. at the University of Idaho College of Law in 2002.
Soon after finishing law school, Muhonen joined Racine Olson and became a partner in 2003. That early partnership placed him in the middle of trial work and firm management from the start of his career. He has practiced under the Racine Olson name for more than two decades, taking on roles that combine courtroom work and the responsibilities that come with firm leadership.
He is licensed to practice in both Idaho and Utah. Those dual jurisdictions have allowed him to handle matters that cross state lines and to appear in different trial courts. Over the years he has developed practical familiarity with procedure and litigation practice in both states.
Muhonen has been active in local bar affairs. He has been a member of the Idaho Trial Lawyers Association since 2003, a group that gathers litigators from across the state. He also served in the 6th District Bar Association in several successive leadership posts: secretary from 2014 to 2015, vice president from 2015 to 2016, and president from 2016 to 2017. Those roles involved organizing local programs, coordinating with other lawyers in the district and helping run bar activities.
Colleagues describe Muhonen as an experienced courtroom lawyer who combines an attention to procedural detail with steady advocacy in front of juries and judges. His earlier academic work in criminal justice and sociology informs how he examines evidence and how he frames narratives for juries. He takes a practical approach to case preparation, often emphasizing readiness for trial early in the process.
At Racine Olson he has continued to represent clients in contested matters and to mentor younger lawyers in trial practice. He remains active in the Idaho legal community and in the 6th District Bar's alumni of past leaders. He practices at Racine Olson and handles litigation and trial matters in Idaho and Utah.
